Bridging the skills gap in the electrical industry

Kevin Sparrow, Industry & Portfolio Manager (BSE) at EAL, was a speaker at Electrical Safety First's landmark electrical installation seminar, themed 'Switch on to the big issues'. The seminar delved deep into discussions on advancing the electrical industry's skillset and regulatory landscape.

As the keynote speaker, Don Foster, Baron Foster of Bath, emphasised the pressing need for substantial governmental support to propel the electrical industry forward. He urged the industry to collaborate on viable solutions to present to policymakers.

EAL contributed significantly to the panel discussions, particularly focusing on expanding the installer base. Key topics included addressing the challenges of recruiting ample talent for training and securing funding for apprenticeships, especially within the context of a predominantly comprised small to medium-sized organisational landscape.

The panel, expertly moderated by Luke Osborne, Deputy Technical Director at Electrical Safety First, featured industry experts such as Chris Claydon MA, Chief Executive at JTL; Ruth Devine MBE, Managing Director at SJD Associates and Chair of TESP; alongside Kevin Sparrow from EAL. Also participating were Veronica Jennings, Labour Manager at Dalkia, and Gary Parker, Head of Technical Standards at ECA.

Ruth Devine amplified the importance of integrating green technology and values into apprenticeship programs, citing their appeal to younger demographics. She identified the need to boost apprenticeship completion rates as a pivotal opportunity for the electrical industry. She said: “Green tech and green values speak to young people more. We need to improve the rate of completion of apprenticeships” and mentioned, “It is a perfect storm of opportunity.” 

Kevin Sparrow highlighted EAL's proactive engagement with employers and stakeholders to ensure the relevance and excellence of its electrical qualifications. He championed the Industry's Electrician Plus Model and issued a compelling call to action for employers to invest in skills development.

The seminar drew over 100 delegates spanning the electrical industry spectrum, including representatives from manufacturers, wholesalers, educational institutions, governmental bodies, insurers, housing associations, and fire and rescue services. The event, held at the prestigious IET, Savoy Place, London, served as a catalyst for collaborative progress in the electrical industry.

For further insights and visual highlights, please visit https://www.electricalsafetyfirst.org.uk/seminar.